'The house shook': Accident investigators arrive at scene of derailed Carlisle freight train

Initial reports indicated that seven wagons carrying cement derailed near Petteril bridge junction. Credit: Stuart Walker

Investigators are on the scene after a freight train derailed in Carlisle last night.

Multiple carriages came off the track over the River Petteril, behind B&Q just after 8pm on Wednesday 19 October.

A spokesperson for the Rail Accident Investigation Branch said: “RAIB has a team on site at Petteril Bridge Junction near Carlisle following a freight train derailment, which occurred last night. 

"Initial reports indicate that seven wagons derailed. RAIB are working to gather information and evidence in coordination with other agencies."

Eyewitness Chris Tilley spoke to ITV Border about the moment he and his family heard the crash

The inspection by the RAIB is the first step towards reopening the line. No efforts can be made to remove the train and make railway repairs until they have examined the scene.

No one was injured in the incident but there is major disruption on the rail network and it is expected to impact passenger train journeys between Carlisle, Newcastle and Appleby and Skipton for several days.

Bus replacement services are running between Carlisle and Appleby and Carlisle and Wetheral.

Passengers are urged to check National Rail Enquiries at www.nationalrail.co.uk as there will be a significant number of cancellations over the coming days.

In a statement on Thursday afternoon, Phil James, Network Rail’s North West route director, said: 

“On the rare occasions trains leave tracks like this it can cause extensive damage and unfortunately this incident is no exception.

“I understand this will be extremely frustrating for passengers who rely on this crucial rail link from east to west linking Carlisle and Newcastle, as well as south to Skipton.

Across the rail industry we’re working hard to keep people on the move through rail replacement buses while we work as fast as we can to restore the railway for passengers and freight.”

Rail replacement buses are keeping people on the move and those planning to travel over the next two weeks are advised to visit www.nationalrail.co.uk so they know what to expect from their journey.

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